Abstract: The importance of responsibility, accountability, transparency and fairness are raising the issues of their effect on the performance of the firm and the managers as well. This is closely related to the agency problem because corporate governance mechanisms intend to induce managers to act according to the best interest of the shareholders, which is by maximizing the firm’s value and ultimately reducing agency costs. This study is a contribution to other studies conducted to examine the impact of corporate governance mechanisms on firm’s performance of the insurance industry in Bahrain, understand how to minimize the agency costs effectively and design the appropriate organizational structure. Also, to distinguish between good and bad corporate governance which is a crucial step in building the market’s confidence and attracting positive investment flows to the institution and the economy. E-views program has been used to regress and the method the Pooled data. Five insurance companies listed in BSE have been selected as a sample for this study for the period of 2005-2010. Therefore, the total panel of observations is 30. The research concludes that there is no statistically significant impact of corporate governance expressed by CEO status, ownership concentration, the number of employees, industry performance, and number of shares traded on firm’s performance in the insurance industry expressed by the dependent variable - return on equity (ROE). On the other hand board size, firm size, number of block-holders found to have statistically significant impact on firm’s performance in the insurance industry expressed by the dependent variable - return on equity (ROE). This result, confirms the importance of good governance structure on the firm and the whole economy in the long run. The researcher suggests that every insurance firm should properly define corporate governance and its mechanisms and implement them effectively in order to reach the firm’s long-term goals, build stakeholders’ confidence and generate positive investment flows. The recent financial crisis has had enormous impacts on the economy, leading to major problems in insurance companies. Therefore, an insurance company should focus on good corporate governance that will build a stable foundation for recovering from this crisis. Regarding future line of research, efforts should be put at increasing the sample size, the corporate governance variables, and the time frame in order to have more accurate and reliable results. More importantly, the empirical literature indicates a sample selection bias in favor of very big firms. It is hereby suggested that attention should be devoted to the study of small- and medium-scale firms. This is because these firms account for at least 90% of the total number of firms in the world.

Abstract: Vocabulary learning is one of the most important factors that foreign language learners encounter during the process of learning a foreign language. Vocabulary learning used to be a neglected aspect of language learning. In recent years, however, interest in this area has grown enormously. Language teachers have been keen in searching for effective approaches to enhance vocabulary learning. Vocabulary learning is more important than familiarity with the form and meaning of a word. This paper has suggested reciprocal teaching strategy as a main factor to improve students’ vocabulary learning in a foreign language. The purpose of this study is to investigate whether ‘reciprocal teaching strategy improves students vocabulary learning or not. Reciprocal teaching consists of four basic reading strategies: predicting, questioning, clarifying, and summarizing. Cognitive and meta-cognitive strategies are the reciprocal teaching strategies used to enhance students’ vocabulary learning. The lack of good vocabulary learning skills is a main obstacle in a foreign language. One solution to this problem of poor vocabulary skill is the explicit teaching of vocabulary learning strategy. Researcher is going to define the key words, explain the models of vocabulary process, follow reciprocal teaching strategies, discuss cognitive and meta-cognitive strategies and elaborate the related research on reciprocal teaching, and state relationship between reciprocal teaching and vocabulary learning. The findings indicated that reciprocal teaching had a significantly positive effect on the foreign language learning. Keywords: Vocabulary learning, Reciprocal teaching, cognitive strategy, meta-cognitive strategy

Abstract: Similar to other Southeast Asian countries in the world, Cambodia has established her higher education institutions to develop human capitals with high knowledge and professional ethics for serving the country in the longstanding contemporary history. Remarkably, colonization, political ideologies, and global economic development tendencies have directly influenced on Cambodian public higher education institutions within her various political regimes and social transformation. The purpose of this study is to examine the Cambodian higher education development in the seven different regimes of historical perspectives from the French colony to the present. This paper mainly uses predominantly descriptive approach with secondary sources such as academic papers, textbooks, government documents, non government organization documents, and development partner reports. Therefore, this research could be significant for researchers, academicians, and policymakers to deeper understand about Cambodian higher educational history in order to reform its system for the profits of education quality and student academic success. Keywords : Cambodia, higher education institutions, development, historical perspectives, public university, education system, tertiary education

Abstract: This study investigates the reading interests and habits of Mass Communication and Library and Information Science students at the Federal Polytechnic, Offa, Kwara State. The survey research method was adopted. A pretest involving NDII and HND II Accountancy students at the same institution was conducted to establish the reliability co-efficient of the instrument Reading Interests and Habits Questionnaire (RIHQ) at r=0.88. Of 250 copies of the questionnaire administered, 246 were used for the analysis. Some of the significant findings

Abstract: The objective of this study was investigating the written English errors of tenth grade students in females and males schools in Ajloun, Jordan. It was conducted on purpose of identifying the written errors of English committed by the tenth grade, estimating the predominant errors and the least ones and explaining the causes of the written errors of English committed by the tenth grade students The sample of study consisted of 350 students selected randomly from group of schools in Ajloun. The students were asked to write a free essay about " A journey to the ancient city of Jerash in Jordan" in an ordinary English language exercise in the class. Then the essays collected and analyzed depending on a table of errors adopted from a Ph.D. of ( wakkad,1980).The findings were: First, the most predominant errors among tenth grade students in Ajloun schools within morphology were errors of lack of agreement between subject and the main verb. Second, the most predominant errors among tenth grade students in Ajloun schools within function words were errors of insertion of prepositions. Third, the most predominant errors among tenth grade students within syntax were errors of omission of the main verb. Fourth, the most predominant errors among tenth grade students within tenses were errors of using present instead of past. Fifth, the most predominant errors among tenth grade students within lexical items were errors of lexical items wrongly used in place of others.

Abstract: This paper presents an overview of the application of Information and Communication Technology in the conduct of post-UTME and other examinations at the University of Ilorin. It provides a brief historical background to the practice at the University, dating back to 2005 when it started by adopting the Pen-and-Paper Testing up to the present practice, using the Computer-Based Testing method. The paper underscored the challenges associated with the former practice, thus justifying the introduction of the latter, thereby justifying it. In conclusion, this paper advocates the widespread adoption of CBT method for the conduct of not just the post-UTME examinations, but also other University-based examinations with large population of students in Nigerian Universities owing to the success story of the University of Ilorin.

Abstract: Background: In a contemporary healthcare environment characterized by rapidly-changing developments and relentlessly-increasing knowledge, professional nurses need to develop critical thinking skills that will provide them with expertise in flexible, individualized, situation-specific problem solving. Therefore, nursing education strives to facilitate the development of students’ critical thinking through the appropriate instructional approaches. Developing critical thinking and knowledge of different learning styles among the student population are important in designing curricula, and adopting teaching methods that to promote student learning is a crucial part of ensuring that students engage positively with content and develop the deep learning skills needed for lifelong learning. Assessment of LS and CTD should be given more attention by nurse educators because teaching students according to their learning ability will nurture their CTD, increase their ability to process information, and enhance academic performance. Aims: The present study aims to determine baccalaureate nursing students’ critical thinking dispositions and learning styles and its relation to their achievement. Design: The study will use descriptive correctional study. Methods: The study was conducted at Faculty of Nursing at King Khalid University, Saudi Arabia. All nursing students, enrolled in the Faculty of Nursing from three levels of academic year, fourth, sixth, and eighth at the time of the study of the academic year 2010-2011 were included in the study (n= 208). Three tools were used for data collection namely; California Critical Thinking Disposition Inventory (CCTDI), Learning Style Questionnaire (LSQ), and Retrospective Audit. Results: Based on the study findings of this study, it could be found that there was no significant relationship between overall critical thinking dispositions and learning style with nursing students’ achievement, while a significant relationship was proved between nursing student critical thinking disposition and nursing student active/reflective learning style. The majority of the undergraduate nursing students at Faculty of Nursing, King Khalid University showed ambivalent disposition towards most of the dispositional characteristics and the overall CCTDI. Conclusions: It was concluded that critical thinking is enhanced when active learning approaches and most nursing students preferred active/reflective learning style. It is recommended to the developed further studies in other faculties of nursing in Saudi Arabia. Key words: Nursing education program, critical thinking, critical thinking dispositions, learning styles, nursing students’ achievement, nursing educators, Grade Point Average. Abbreviations: CT critical thinking, CCTDI California Critical Thinking Disposition Inventory, LS learning style, GPA grade point average, SDL self-directed learning, SDLERS Students' Self-Directed Learner Readiness Scale.

Abstract: Entrepreneurial Orientation is a significant influencer of firm performance more so for manufacturing firms operating under globalization, internationalization and regional integration regimes. Regionalization is the coming together by nations as a means of attaining socio-economic and political goals by nations, which cannot be achieved in isolation. Regionalization results in expanded markets, characterized by increased number of competition, and increased market size. This therefore, exerts greater pressure on manufacturing firms to regionalize; this is a challenge to firms accustomed to operating under a domestic market set-up. To overcome the challenges associated with regionalization, eminent scholars in other parts of the world have recommended, that, manufacturing firms adopt Entrepreneurial Orientation as a solution to the challenges brought about by regionalization. It is on this basis that the study sought to determine the influence of entrepreneurial orientation on the performance of manufacturing firms in Kenya operating under the East African Community regional integration. The study findings revealed that performance of Kenya’s manufacturing firms operating under the East African Community regional integration, are significantly influenced by entrepreneurial orientation, in terms of Sales, Profits and Employment as measures of firm performance. The significance influence is more pronounced in terms of Sales for manufacturing firms which are integrated or operate within the regional integration. The study concluded that Kenya’s manufacturing firms intent on enhancing their performance urgently need to adopt entrepreneurial orientation and recommends that further study be undertaken in other areas besides entrepreneurial orientation as an influencer of manufacturing firm performance. Keywords: Entrepreneurship, Entrepreneurial Orientation, Competitiveness, Firm Performance, Regional Integration.

Abstract: Background; t he use of information technology and the internet as teaching and learning tool is rapidly expanding into today’s learning environments. Education institutions in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) are preparing students for a rapidly changing information and technology driven world. The KSA needs graduates who are ready for the workplace and who have a high level of knowledge and confidence in the use of technology to help them in their lifelong learning. Since e- learning is conducted using the Internet and World Wide Web, the learning environment becomes more complicated. Students’ initial perceived satisfaction with technology-based e- learning will determine whether they will use the system continually. So this study aimed to assess perceived e-learner satisfaction and investigate the preceding factors influence on nursing students’ satisfaction with e-learning experience in King Khalid University. Subjects: A convenience sample of 135 female nursing students affiliated to University Center for Female Studies, King Khalid University was enrolled in this study. Tool: data were collected by using three tools. The first was concerned with collecting data related to sample characteristics, the second concerned with identifying the factors that may affect the e–learner satisfaction with e–learning. The third concerned with measuring the learner satisfaction with e–learning. Results; revealed that 61.5% of participant students were unsatisfied with their e-learning experience and learner attitude towards computer, learners’ computer anxiety, e-learning course flexibility, e- learning course quality, technology quality, perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, diversity in assessment, and learner perceived interaction with others were the critical factors affecting learners’ perceived satisfaction. Recommendation &implications: Helping students build their confidence in using computers will make e- learning more enjoyable. Also course content should be relevant, logically organized, easy to use, carefully designed, and presented sparingly. The results show institutions how to improve learner satisfaction and further strengthen their e- learning implementation. Key words: E-learning, E- learner Satisfaction, Factors Affecting E- learner Satisfaction.

Abstract: A healthful work environment brings safety to employees’ physical and mental capabilities in performing their daily routine. In order to reach the healthful work environment, providing the healthful facilities must be taking into account. The examples of facilities are chair seating and lighting. A proper chair seating and sufficient lighting play important role in ensuring employees’ welfare are protected as well their work performance goes up. The ignorance of these important healthful work environments will lead to work stress. Office ergonomics can be provided and used in any type of workplaces like permanent office, home office, virtual office, or even mobile office which the employees working at construction sites for temporary. Employees, who are spending time in office, sitting on chair, interacting with computer and switching on lamp from 8:00 a.m. till 5:00 p.m. is suggested to be provided ergonomics facilities like adjustable chair seating and appropriate lighting level. Keywords: Ergonomics, Chair Seating, Lighting, Work Stress

Abstract: Due to globalization, the importance of English cannot be overemphasized. Most teachers would assume that the motivation for students to learn English would be stronger than before. The purpose of this study is to explore the English learning motivation among vocational college students of different systems. The aim of the thesis was to understand students’ learning motivation of EFL, and compare the motivation in different students’ background or different systems of vocational college. The results showed that there were no differences on different systems in vocational college, gender and background of high school for students’ learning motivations. The results also found that there were stronger statistically significant between learning motivations and learning achievements.

Abstract: Purpose: The basic purpose of measuring the customer’s loyalty in Islamic banking in Bahawalpur region is their long term commitment. Design/methodology/approach: This research has been conducted utilizing the actual data with the help of a questionnaire based on the literature extensively written on Islamic banking services, to develop a viable model to explore the attributes which lead towards the customer loyalty in utilizing the financial services of Islamic banks in Bahawalpur region. A new dimension is added by conducting research on customer’s loyalty in Islamic banking in Bahawalpur region, taking sample of 125 respondents from 20 banks operating in Islamic banking services of this region. Findings: Factors abstracted from the customers loyalty are, customers satisfaction, switching cost, customers perception, success philosophy and trust and commitment. It is found that these factors significantly affect the customer’s loyalty in Islamic banking and are greatly associated with the customer’s loyalty. Research limitations/ implication: Only available material is studied in spite of all the material and research is implicated in Bahawalpur region only. The sample size is small to only 125 respondents but the results are implicated on overall customer’s loyalty in Islamic banking. Practical implications: Pakistani banks are needed to take initiative in creating awareness about Islamic banking and providing more effective services. Originality/ value: This is one of the very first researches on customers loyalty in Islamic banking conducted in Bahawalpur region and could be very useful for countries adopting Islamic banking. Key words: Customers loyalty, Islamic banking.

Abstract: Internship program in Teacher Education is of great significance because it ensures the professional preparation of prospective teachers. It provides them a practical opportunity to develop true understanding of the teaching profession and future prospects of working conditions in that profession. This study looks at issues and challenges that the prospective teachers experience during internship program. The study also deals with the perception and experience of the principals of cooperative schools involved in the internship program. Research approach for this study was both quantitative and qualitative. Population consisted of all student-teachers of B.Ed at Faculty of Education and principals of cooperative schools where students go for internship program. The 80 student-teachers and 05 principals of collaborative schools were selected as sample. Data was collected through three-point likert scale and in-depth interviews. The findings show that student-teachers view internship program as a real opportunity to refine and improve their teaching skills in actual school setting. The results of the in-depth interviews with the principals reveal that internship program is of crucial importance and it has positive impact on the performance of student-teachers.

Abstract: The principal purport of this study is to explore and look for variety of aspects and the significance of human capital in today’s hyper-competitive environment besides delve in to details for gaining more insights regarding the subject in focus i.e. human capital. The paper is an exploratory study, which by and large relies heavily on the analysis of available literature and model testing. Organizations have been persistently adverting fair amount of emphasis on human capital by taking necessary measures to develop a culture of knowledge sharing, retain highly competent employees to generate more innovative ideas with a view to achieve the competitive advantage for having an edge over contemporary organizations. Having set forth afore-said goals; top management of dynamic organizations more often than not encourage their employees to actively participate in the knowledge sharing practices. The inference is that human capital by all means is positively related to the organizational productivity since implementation of the creative ideas and innovations do improve the organizational outcomes. As a result of intellectual capital employees tend to become loyal and passionate about their work and devote their talents to the best of their potential to achieve the all important competitive advantage. Key words: Human Capital, Organizational Performance, Competent Employees, Intellectual Capital, Social Capital, Competitive Advantage.

Abstract: The chief idea of accomplishing this study is to recognize the challenges in front of educational leaders. Different leadership theories are argued in this piece of paper to elucidate the need of leadership and reflective practice for the educational leaders particularly in 21 st century. In 21 st century finest leader and coaches are essential in management as well as for the swift intensification of the education sector. Study shows that in the forthcoming era, educational leaders are mostly required rather than professional teachers. The concepts and importance of need of educational leaders are described by means of different theories and models. In this study, researchers pin point the unusual plane of awareness of internal and external nature of leadership is deliberate crucial role that leads to better suspicion to acquire the right judgment. Awareness also considered very important factor for effective decision making.

Abstract: There has been considerable attention from the cross-cultural pragmatics literature towards the various strategies speakers use when performing the requesting speech act. Speech acts are often used when communicating verbally in either the first language or a second language. This paper presents a study into the similarities and differences in the request strategies by Malaysian and Libyan postgraduate students at USM. The study majorly uses information from existing literature on what other people have written on this topic. The study findings will give new insights to the directness and requesting behaviors within Libyan and Malaysian students and the challenges of cross-linguistic and cross-cultural communication. This study has cultural implications such as awareness of the request strategies used in one culture compared to another culture. This study tackles the ability of Libyan and Malay learners to apply requests in English. Furthermore, this study attempts to provide explanations for pragmatic errors that Libyan and Malay learners may perform. Keywords: Cross-Cultural, Strategies, Modifications, Linguistic.

Abstract: Word of mouth has become a strong promotional instrument and an important source of information effective in consumer's attitudes and behaviors, especially in the field of service where the consumer's believes play an important role in choosing it. Word of mouth is very important in service industries, because intangible products can't be evaluated before consumption. The present study examines the factors effective in the formation of word of mouth about the services of airline companies and their results. The population of the research is all of the passengers used the services of Iran Air Company in the period of conducting the research. The sample size was estimated 212 using Cochran's formula. The convenience sampling plan was used for data collection. Pearson's correlation test and the structural equation modeling were used for testing the hypotheses. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS and AMOS software. Findings show that satisfaction, trust, service quality, the perceived value and loyalty are the factors effective in the formation of word of mouth about airline companies and can directly and indirectly affect on customers' decision about using the services of these companies. Keywords : Word of mouth, Consumer's behavior, Airline company, Structural equation modeling

Abstract: With the completion of this work is to study the impact of emotional intelligence and self-concept, being the sample size of 134 students. To measure emotional intelligence 24 and TMMS was used for self AF5 was used. The results released into the Cronbach's alpha show that all scales have adequate internal consistency. The data analysis showed that there is an influence of emotional intelligence on self-concept, emotional care being the dimension which has a higher weight. Keywords: Emotional intelligence, Self-concept, Structural equations.

Abstract: A number of researchers focus on the issue of HR practices and their impact on performance of employees particularly on developed countries. Few researches are there for the implication of these practices in developing countries. The current research focus on relationship between job satisfaction of university employees and focus HR practices which are compensation, promotion, empowerment and performance evaluation practice. It also focus on demographic attributes impact on job satisfaction and HR practices. Result shows that male university teachers are more satisfied with their job but female teachers are more satisfied with HR practices of universities. Public sector university teachers are more satisfied and found direct relationship in length of experience and job satisfaction. HR practices have positive correlation with job satisfaction. Pakistani universities have to improve the current level of HR practices, specially compensation practice for lucidity of their teacher’s career. Keywords: HR Practices; Job Satisfaction; University Teachers; Under Develop Countries; Pakistan.

Abstract: With the high rate of unemployment in Botswana, it has become imperative that the alternative source of employment seen by policy makers and researchers as the panacea to the problem, is entrepreneurship. Although, research has been conducted on entrepreneurship, little has been done on the university students’ perceptions of entrepreneurial behaviour in Botswana. To fill this gap, this paper seeks to investigate university students’ perceptions of various entrepreneurial characteristics, motivators and challenges in Botswana. To achieve this, a sample of 394 undergraduate students of the University of Botswana was targeted. Findings of the current study indicate that students perceived an entrepreneur as an individual who possesses the right managerial skills, take risks, contribute to the economy, utilize available resources optimally, is creative and successful. Although the current study is based on undergraduate students, an investigation of entrepreneurial behaviour that exists among potential entrepreneurs in Botswana is important, since it will enable policy makers and other stakeholders to intensify and channel initiatives to promote self employment. Key words : Botswana, Entrepreneur, Entrepreneurship, motivators, traits

Abstract: Student-centered learning (SCL) is aimed at developing pedagogy that probes into students learning in regard to what they experience and how they engage in the learning context or environment. This paper aims to review what is meant by student-centered learning in the context of Oman, and how this can be achieved. It goes further to explore challenges that tend to deter the implementation of SCL with a view to providing recommendations to improve and enhance SCL in Oman. Following data collected from the focus group discussions, the study reveals that language, culture, lack of student exposure, exported teaching materials, poor perception of SCL by students, among others, is they major obstacles facing SCL in Oman. Based on the findings, the author recommends that for SCL to take root in Oman there should be attitudinal change on the part of students with regard to a better understanding of what SCL is and why it is desirable, and students of opposite genders should be encouraged to work together to articulate their ideas in a disciplined social process of inquiry.

Abstract: Career services provision include all actions which deal with giving students information and psychological assistance that may directly affect their decisions and choices which these individuals are about to make on their schooling and employment. The purpose of this study was to examine the status of career services provision and its role on career decision making among high school students in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania by comparing career services provision in government and international schools. Specifically, the study intended to identify the career programs available to students in schools, students’ career knowledge and the contribution of career programs and career knowledge to students’ career decision making. The study was conducted in six secondary schools using a sample of 322 students. The data from students were collected through a structured questionnaire and focus group discussions. The results revealed that students in international schools had access to many career programs and they have better knowledge on careers as compared to students in government schools. It was therefore concluded that, career services provision in international schools is to some degrees a reality as opposed to government schools where career services provision is still a dream. It is suggested that, future research can observe the role of career services provision in secondary schools to students’ ability to make relevant course choices in higher learning institutions.

Abstract: Purpose - The basic purpose of this research paper conducted is to report the findings of this experimental study conducted in Bahawalpur region, about the role of Islamic banking in agriculture sector from the users and non-users (users of conventional banking) of Islamic banking. Design/methodology/approach - This descriptive and qualitative research is conducted and focuses on two main groups of banking customer’s users and non users of Islamic banking and also informal interview with managers of some banks. A survey questionnaire was developed that subsequently get response from 120 respondents. Hypothesis analysis is the main tool of analysis in which mean, standard deviation; variance and chi-square tests are applied using SPSS 16.0. Findings - After the through study of body of knowledge we find that there is significant relationship between Islamic banking and agriculture sector. Islamic banking is providing easy terms of financing like Ijarah, Diminishing musharaka, Murabaha, salam and bai salam and similarly providing different types of working capital like Murabaha, Musawamah, Salam, Muzara’a. These terms of financing increase the asset ownership, yield and income of farmers. Islamic banking is not providing any financing for irrigation system and farmers are facing problem of credit standing and problem of collateral. Practical Limitations/Implication – Most of the concerned articles are taken from the Pakistan, Malaysia, etc. there was limited time for conducting research and receiving response from respondents. The sample size is of small size subsequently of 120 respondents and applicable to Bahawalpur region. As this result is implemented to Bahawalpur region only so therefore pilot study to whole Pakistan is suggested. Originality/Value - The aim of this paper is to provide and make attention toward of role of Islamic banking the Bahawalpur region of southern Punjab, Pakistan as the previous studies were country wide. This paper will help to conduct same type of researches in other regions of Pakistan. Keywords - Role of Islamic banking, Agriculture sectors.

Abstract: Purpose :-The purpose of this paper is to compare the Corporate Social Responsibility practices in Islamic and Conventional banking. And the working of CSR in both IFIs and CFIs or either both institution work on same pattern. Design/methodology/approach: - By using content analysis approach, the paper examines the working of Corporate Social Responsibility practices in 10 Islamic banks and 10 Conventional banks. Findings:- The results show positive & little significant difference in the level and the degree of the disclosures between Islamic and Conventional banking. This difference is due to expose of IFIs by religious Islam. Originality/value: - This paper’s contribution to the literature shows the actual difference of CSRD by comparing disclosures between Islamic and Conventional banking. The paper shows the level of pressure of Islamic concepts and beliefs on CSRD in Islamic banking. Keywords: - Corporate Social Responsibility, Disclosure, Islam, Financial institutions, Islamic Banking, Conventional banking.

Abstract: This study aims to elaborate the role of job satisfaction in committing employees with organization. This study tested the effect of both components of job satisfaction (intrinsic and extrinsic) of on organizational commitment in banking sector of Pakistan. Data was gathered from employees working in banks of Pakistan. The study has uses descriptive statistics (mean and standard deviation) to identify sample characteristics and inferential statistics (multiple linear regression) to find out the relationship between variables. Results showed the significant and positive effect of both components of job satisfaction on organizational commitment. This study is a contribution to theory and practice with an increased understanding on importance of job satisfaction in committing the employees with the organization. Keywords: Intrinsic Job Satisfaction, Extrinsic Job Satisfaction, Organizational Commitment

Abstract: The aim of this study was to see the impact of parents’ profession on learning English at intermediate level. With respect to learning English as a second language (as in Pakistan) has several challenges in the academic achievement for the students. Some of these are students’ lack of appropriate study skills and strategies; their academic learning anxiety; their low social self-efficacy; their financial difficulties; and improper guidance from the family members. In the case of family members parents have a great influence in this perspectives and learning a language means acquiring the set of pragmatic norms and cultural values embedded in the target language. But the cultural values and social norms are transferred from home environment especially from parents to children. In relation to interacting family norms; parents’ attitude, parents’ academic level are considered important. Therefore, the study was conducted to explore further dimensions of parents’ impact on their children’s learning English. The objective of this study was especially to see the impact of parents’ profession on their children’s learning English language. Participants were 430 students of intermediate class. A self-reported survey questionnaire was used to collect the data. The collected data was analyzed by using SPSS-16 to find mean value and correlation value. The results revealed that for learning English parents’ profession has positive correlation on it that varies with respect to their professions. Keywords : Learning, Learning environment, Lingua-Franca, Second Language Acquisition

Abstract: When non-native scholars wish to write for their counterparts they should try to adapt their writing styles to the English norms which is considered as a national language among the global researchers around the world. Because the language they write is foreign, they face differences which make the writing difficult. These differences may be related to the different identity and cultural backgrounds. Accordingly, scholars should notice about the features of academic writing, in general and, in a particular field to overcome these differences. Therefore, the purpose of the present study is to give some enlightenment on the various elements which can have less or more effects on the style of non-native writers. Thus, this descriptive study makes clear the different features of the academic writing to help non-native writers to know some of the issues which should be pondered by writers in adapting themselves with the norms of writing which is acceptable by the English academic culture in a global scene. The findings give information to the EAP instructors to raise the learners’ consciousness about the norms of the target culture.

Abstract: New teaching and learning techniques are developing day by day with the support of information technology and the Internet. Many universities take the advantage of support of information technologies on teaching and learning environments. Each individual’s physical, mental and emotional skills are different. It is emphasized that, more importance are given to individuals performances while they are in groups in those places where the traditional teaching approaches is dominated. At this point, individual performance of individuals and their different learning abilities could not be evaluated alone and left in the background. In these places, it is also stated the importance of learning in groups but not individually. The attitude of an individual towards the computer could be defined as a positive or negative view of the individual on the computer technology or the computer-supported applications. In the development of the attitude of the students, their personal characteristics, perception of computers, frequency of their use of computers, their sex, age and previous experiences play an important role. Some experts find it striking that when attitudes towards the computers are investigated, the researches are concentrated more on teachers and teachers-to-be, while studies on establishing the attitude of students are limited in number. For that reason, this study focuses on impact of determinants of student performance and evaluates this performance through an exploratory research.

Abstract: This study examined the various options for maximizing internal revenue generation in the Nigerian local governments. It took critical and hard look on the various sources of internal revenue in the local governments, problems of exploiting the various sources for revenue generation, and the reason why most of the sources remain untapped or under-tapped by the local government in Nigeria. The study suggested feasible and pragmatic ways to maximize internal revenue generation in the local governments. It observed that prior to 1976 Local Government Reform; most local governments were able to maximize their internal revenue generation and discharged their primary responsibilities with little or no financial assistance from the higher tier governments. However, with the introduction of statutory allocations to the local governments following the 1976 Reform, most of the local governments abandoned the hitherto viable internal revenue sources in preference to the revenue from statutory allocation. This unwholesome attitude of most local governments, among others, was identified as the bane of internal revenue generation at this level of government. The paper concludes, by stating that unless the local governments look inwards to maximize their internal revenue sources it cannot be financially self-reliant. The implication of this is that it cannot enjoy reasonable degree of autonomy as a third tier of government if it continues to be heavily dependent on the financial assistance from both the federal and the state governments, to be able to function effectively. The reason is because as the saying goes, “he who pays the piper dictates the tune.”